Awarding Qatar 2022 summer World Cup was a mistake: FIFA president Sepp Blatter

Lausanne: FIFA president Sepp Blatter has said it was a mistake to choose Qatar to host the 2022 World Cup in the summertime, adding that it must be held in the winter instead.

Sepp Blatter

When asked if it was a mistake choosing the Middle East country because of its high temperatures during the summer months, Blatter said in an interview on Thursday with Swiss RTS station: "Yes, of course.

You know, everyone makes mistakes in life. The average temperature tops 40°C in June and July (104 degrees Fahrenheit), when World Cup finals usually take place.

"The Qatar technical report ruled that it was too hot in the summer, but the (FIFA's) executive committee, with a large majority, decided to play in Qatar."

In these circumstances, "it is more than likely" that the 2022 World Cup will be played in winter, said Blatter, who has repeatedly expressed his desire to move the tournament to a more suitable date.

Temperatures in the winter in Qatar are 25°C (77 degrees Fahrenheit). "The best time to play is at the end of the year. You must be realistic.. We must play in winter at the end of the year," added Blatter.